Follow Lexus News

Lexus CT 200h Owner Blog

Daily Email Newsletter

Photo of the Day

Lexus Vehicles for Sale

Site Sponsor

Among the numerous media reports covering the launch of the CT 200h, some interesting details about the new Lexus hatchback’s platform have emerged—Autocar reports (emphasis added):

The CT200h is 4320mm long, 1765mm and 1430mm high, meaning it is longer, wider and taller than the A3 and 1-series. Its 2600mm wheelbase is only eclipsed by the 1-series’ 2660mm and its 345-litre boot is bettered only by the A3’s 350-litre capacity. […]

Although not confirmed, a small SUV and three-door CT200h are set to be spun off this platform.

A similar article was filed by Car and Driver regarding a possible new CT-based crossover:

We’ve also learned that the car is based on a new platform that isn’t shared with any other Lexus or Toyota products, featuring a wishbone rear suspension and struts up front. The architecture may be used in future Lexus products such as a small crossover, in which case it would use electric motors for an all-wheel-drive setup like that of the RX450h hybrid crossover.

It certainly would be interesting to see what a 3-door CT 200h would look like. A small ‘cute-ute’ Lexus crossover has also been rumored for quite some time, although Lexus USA executives have questioned the suitability of such a model for the US market. In Europe however, a small hybrid crossover could build on the CT 200h’s foothold in the compact luxury segment. It appears that following Lexus’ decision to produce a model specifically engineered to the tastes of European luxury buyers, an expanded lineup of related Euro-focused compact models may be a genuine possibility.